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M-MUS-RABINDRA-SANGIT in Rabindra Sangit at Visva-Bharati
Birbhum, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Rabindra Sangit at Visva-Bharati Birbhum?
This M.Mus. Rabindra Sangit program at Visva-Bharati University focuses on a comprehensive and immersive study of Rabindranath Tagore''''s unique musical legacy. Rooted in the rich cultural heritage of West Bengal, the program delves into the theoretical, practical, and aesthetic dimensions of Rabindra Sangit. It emphasizes performance mastery, textual interpretation, and scholarly research, positioning its graduates as torchbearers of this distinct Indian musical tradition. The demand for skilled Rabindra Sangit practitioners, educators, and researchers remains high in the Indian cultural landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for passionate individuals holding a B.Mus. (Hons.) or an equivalent degree, eager to specialize in Rabindra Sangit. It caters to fresh graduates seeking to deepen their performance and academic understanding, aspiring vocalists and musicians, and cultural enthusiasts desiring a scholarly engagement with Tagore''''s music. The program also welcomes working professionals in music education or performance seeking advanced qualifications and research opportunities to elevate their expertise and contribute to the field.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including professional Rabindra Sangit performers, music educators in schools and universities, cultural researchers, sound engineers specializing in traditional music, and music therapists. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing to INR 8-15 LPA with experience. The program aligns with opportunities for professional certifications in music pedagogy and performance, fostering significant growth trajectories within Indian cultural institutions and the performing arts industry.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Performance Mastery- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate daily practice time to refine vocal techniques, intonation, rhythm, and diction specific to Rabindra Sangit. Focus on mastering the basic repertoire, understanding emotional nuances, and maintaining correct ''''swar'''' and ''''laya''''. Actively participate in departmental practical sessions and seek individual feedback.
Tools & Resources
Tanpura, Tabla/rhythm apps (e.g., iTablaPro), Official notation books (Swara Bitans), Recordings by master artists
Career Connection
Establishes the core skills necessary for any professional Rabindra Sangit performer or educator, ensuring a strong base for future advanced studies and public performances.
Engage with Historical & Aesthetic Context- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, read extensively on Tagore''''s life, his musical influences, and the philosophical underpinnings of his compositions. Attend seminars, workshops, and lectures on Indian music aesthetics. Discuss historical developments and their impact on Rabindra Sangit with peers and professors.
Tools & Resources
Books on Indian music history, Tagore''''s biographies, Articles from Sangeet Natak Akademi, University library resources
Career Connection
Develops a deep, informed perspective crucial for academic roles, critical appreciation, and for teaching Rabindra Sangit with authenticity and insight.
Cultivate Research Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Begin exploring foundational research methodologies by critically reviewing existing scholarly articles on Rabindra Sangit. Practice summarizing academic texts and identifying research gaps. Participate in informal discussions about potential research topics and formulation of basic research questions.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), University library''''s research guides, Online tutorials on academic writing and citation
Career Connection
Prepares students for the compulsory dissertation in later semesters and lays the groundwork for a career in musicology or academic research.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in Advanced Performance & Repertoire- (Semester 3)
Focus on advanced and complex Rabindra Sangit compositions, exploring intricate melodic and rhythmic patterns. Participate actively in departmental recitals, inter-university competitions, and public performances to hone stage presence and build a performance portfolio. Seek opportunities for solo and ensemble performances.
Tools & Resources
Advanced Rabindra Sangit notation, Recordings of diverse interpretations, Performance opportunities within and outside the university, Peer critiques
Career Connection
Essential for professional performance careers, enabling graduates to present sophisticated and compelling Rabindra Sangit concerts, workshops, and recordings.
Develop Analytical and Notation Skills- (Semester 3)
Deepen understanding of textual analysis, poetic interpretation, and different notation systems for Rabindra Sangit. Practice transcribing songs and critically analyzing the relationship between lyrics, melody, and rhythm. Engage in discussions about variations in notation and their impact on performance.
Tools & Resources
Swara Bitan series, Critical essays on Tagore''''s poetry, Music notation software (e.g., MuseScore), Workshops on musicology
Career Connection
Crucial for roles in music education, archiving, research, and for developing original instructional material for Rabindra Sangit.
Explore Applied Music Theory- (Semester 3)
Delve into the advanced theoretical frameworks of Indian classical music and their specific application to Rabindra Sangit. Analyze ragas, talas, and melodic structures used by Tagore. Participate in theoretical discussions and apply concepts practically in performance and composition analysis.
Tools & Resources
Advanced treatises on Indian music theory, Specialized books on Rabindra Sangit theory, Discussions with senior gurus and musicologists
Career Connection
Strengthens the theoretical foundation for advanced teaching, academic writing, and contributing to the intellectual discourse around Rabindra Sangit.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Select a research topic of personal interest within Rabindra Sangit, develop a robust research proposal, conduct thorough literature review, collect and analyze data (historical, analytical, practical), and write a well-structured dissertation. Actively seek guidance from your supervisor throughout the process.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Citation management tools (Zotero, Mendeley), University library resources, Consistent supervisor meetings
Career Connection
The dissertation is a cornerstone for academic and research careers, showcasing independent critical thinking, scholarly contribution, and deep subject matter expertise.
Prepare for Viva-Voce & Comprehensive Examination- (Semester 4)
Systematically revise the entire M.Mus. curriculum, focusing on both theoretical concepts and practical applications across all semesters. Practice articulating your knowledge clearly and concisely, especially regarding your dissertation work. Engage in mock viva sessions with peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
All previous course materials and notes, Recorded performances for self-assessment, Mock interview sessions with faculty, Faculty interaction for clarification
Career Connection
Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge and readiness for academic and professional roles, building confidence for interviews and scholarly presentations.
Network and Plan Professional Career- (Semester 4)
Attend music festivals, conferences, and cultural events to network with established artists, educators, and industry professionals. Seek mentorship opportunities and explore potential career avenues like teaching positions, performance contracts, or research fellowships. Prepare a professional portfolio including recordings, resume, and academic papers.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations for musicians/academics, University career services, Personal website/portfolio
Career Connection
Facilitates entry into the professional music world, providing crucial connections, visibility, and practical guidance for securing employment or establishing an independent career.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Mus. (Hons.) or an equivalent degree from a recognized University
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (for theory papers), External: 70% (End Semester Examination for theory papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMURS-101 | Rabindra Sangit: Practical – I (Principal) | Core / Practical | 4 | Performance of selected Rabindra Sangit compositions, Vocal technique and intonation, Rhythm and Tala structures, Expressive rendition and emotional content, Repertoire building for principal study |
| MMURS-102 | Rabindra Sangit: Practical – II (Subsidiary) | Core / Practical | 4 | Performance of diverse Rabindra Sangit forms, Study of specific lyrical and melodic compositions, Voice culture and projection, Interpretation of poetic themes, Introduction to stage presentation |
| MMURS-103 | History & Development of Rabindra Sangit | Core / Theory | 4 | Evolution of Rabindra Sangit through periods, Rabindranath Tagore''''s musical journey and influences, Historical context and cultural significance, Major stylistic innovations, Contribution of other artists to the tradition |
| MMURS-104 | Aesthetical Aspects of Indian Music & Rabindra Sangit | Core / Theory | 4 | Aesthetics in Indian Classical Music, Philosophical foundations of music, Concept of Rasa and emotional expression, Aesthetic principles unique to Rabindra Sangit, Relationship between music, poetry, and philosophy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMURS-201 | Rabindra Sangit: Practical – III (Principal) | Core / Practical | 4 | Advanced performance techniques and stylistic nuances, Mastery of complex compositions, In-depth repertoire expansion, Subtleties of emotional delivery, Preparedness for public performance |
| MMURS-202 | Rabindra Sangit: Practical – IV (Subsidiary) | Core / Practical | 4 | Exploring rare and diverse Rabindra Sangit forms, Detailed interpretation of lyrical content, Refining vocal projection and breath control, Ensemble playing and collaborative performance, Understanding performance contexts |
| MMURS-203 | Research Methodology | Core / Theory | 4 | Introduction to research in music, Qualitative and quantitative research methods, Research design and proposal writing, Data collection, analysis, and interpretation, Academic writing and ethical considerations |
| MMURS-204 | History of World Music (An Introduction) | Core / Theory | 4 | Overview of major musical traditions worldwide, Introduction to Western Classical Music, Folk and indigenous music traditions, Comparative study of musical cultures, Evolution of global musical forms |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMURS-301 | Rabindra Sangit: Practical – V (Principal) | Core / Practical | 4 | Professional level performance techniques, Sophisticated rendering and ornamentation, Mastery of challenging Rabindra Sangit repertoire, Nuanced control of mood and expression, Audience engagement and stage presence |
| MMURS-302 | Rabindra Sangit: Practical – VI (Subsidiary) | Core / Practical | 4 | Refined practical application of Rabindra Sangit, Introduction to teaching methodologies for Rabindra Sangit, Advanced collaborative performance skills, Exploring less common compositions and forms, Critical self-assessment and improvement |
| MMURS-303 | Textual Analysis and Notation of Rabindra Sangit | Core / Theory | 4 | Detailed lyrical analysis of Rabindra Sangit, Poetic interpretation and literary devices, Notation systems in Indian music, Specific notation techniques for Tagore''''s songs, Correlation between text, melody, and rhythm |
| MMURS-304 | Applied Theory of Indian Music & Rabindra Sangit | Core / Theory | 4 | Advanced Raga analysis and classification, Complex Tala systems and rhythmic patterns, Theory of melodic and harmonic structures in Indian music, Specific theoretical frameworks for Rabindra Sangit compositions, Musical grammar and compositional principles |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMURS-401 | Rabindra Sangit: Practical – VII (Principal) | Core / Practical | 4 | Recital preparation and presentation skills, Concert performance techniques and ethics, Advanced vocal pedagogy and teaching practice, Developing independent artistic expression, Critical evaluation of performance standards |
| MMURS-402 | Dissertation / Project Work (Rabindra Sangit) | Core / Project | 4 | In-depth research on a chosen topic in Rabindra Sangit, Literature review and theoretical framework, Methodology design and data collection, Analysis, interpretation, and findings presentation, Thesis writing, oral defense, and scholarly contribution |
| MMURS-403 | Viva-Voce (General and Specialization based) | Core / Viva | 4 | Comprehensive oral examination on entire M.Mus. syllabus, In-depth knowledge of Rabindra Sangit theory and practice, Discussion of research insights from dissertation, Understanding of contemporary trends in music, Demonstration of critical thinking and analytical skills |
| MMURS-404 | Elective Course (Any one from other Specializations) | Elective / Theory/Practical | 4 | Selected advanced topics from other M.Mus. specializations, Topics from Vocal, Instrumental, Kathakali Dance, or Manipuri Dance, Broadening musical understanding or skill set, Interdisciplinary musical studies, Choice based on student interest and availability |
